The course can be focussed towards
fixed networks only, mobile networks only or embracing both domains.

Network Requirements for Service
Provides an overview of current network services and technologies
embracing both fixed and mobile domains.

Planning and Managing Access Networks
Examines the possible uses of copper, radio and fibre in the access
domain. Use of DSL technologies and wireless applications for
broadband access are examined. Planning requirements and methods are
examined and techniques for reducing fault liability are discussed.

Planning and Managing Core Transport
Examines the possible uses of copper, fibre and radio solutions and
technologies in the core of the network. Requirements for a common
core transport are discussed and use of SDH, WDM, DWDM, ATM and IP
are examined. Planning requirements for the core are examined and
issues of interconnection and interworking are addressed.

Transmission Management and Resilience
Management issues of the core transmission are discussed and
resilience and robustness issues in the core are highlighted.
Contingency and service protection planning is discussed.

Planning and Managing Switches
Reviews traditional switching functionality and examines the impact
of introducing softswitches and IP-based core network technology.
Capacity dimensioning of switches is examined and issues associated
with managing the switching functionality are discussed.

Commercial Aspects of Network Planning
This module examines the opportunities of partnerships and alliances
to obtain infrastructure. Methods for optimising the network are
discussed. The links to business strategy are highlighted and the
requirements and methods to stimulate revenue streams are discussed.

Network Management
The principles and objectives of network management are examined.
The importance and methods of network surveillance and monitoring of
demand and traffic flow are explained. Analysis of network status
and performance data is examined and real-time network management
controls are explained. This will enable the participant to
understand the importance of being able to see what is happening in
the network at all times and how the ability of being able to
control traffic can lead to better protection of the network, being
able to guarantee agreed service levels and being able to gain extra
revenue.

Quality of Service and Network Performance
Quality of Service criteria and parameters are discussed and
techniques to improve and maintain higher levels of QoS are
examined. Issues associated with the performance of the network are
also discussed.